Serious Alabama Criminal & DUI Defense

Shelby County Sex Crimes Lawyer

A sex crime conviction in Alabama can have both immediate and lifelong consequences. A person may be limited in job opportunities, not be able to see friends and family because of imprisonment and face large fines. It could be important for someone to contact a Shelby County sex crimes lawyer if they were accused of such an offense.

A skilled defense lawyer could gather evidence and begin formulating a legally valid defense. Schedule a consultation before heading to any legal proceeding.

Sex Crimes

The term “sex crimes” applies to a wide variety of offenses in Alabama. Examples include, but are not limited to, the following:

Child pornography

Indecent exposure

Rape

Sexual abuse

Sexual misconduct

Revenge porn

Extortion by sex

Assault with bodily fluids

Many alleged sexual offenses can also involve ancillary charges regarding electronic devices and the internet. Because ancillary charges can involve actions that cross state lines, one alleged set of actions can result in both state and federal charges. An experienced Shelby County sex crimes lawyer could help explain what may constitute as a state or federal offense.

Penalties for Potential Sex Crime Offenses

In Shelby County, many sexual offenses are classified as felonies. These types of charges could lead to imprisonment and possibly costly financial penalties. Depending on the specific crime involved, anyone convicted of a felony could be incarcerated at a minimum of one year to a life sentence. Additionally, they could be fined from $5,000 to $10,000.

Sexual offenses classified as misdemeanors in Alabama can result in incarceration and financial penalties as well. Depending on the specific offense, a person convicted of a misdemeanor may be incarcerated for six to 12 months and may also be fined between $1,000 to $2,000.

Several sexual offenses are further differentiated by degrees. For example, charges for rape and sexual abuse may be classified as a first degree or a second-degree offense. Penalties for first-degree crimes are typically greater than the penalties for second-degree crimes

Many of those who are convicted of a sex crime may also be required to register as a sex offender with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Sex Offender Registry. This will limit the locations where someone can live and frequent. Registering as a sex offender often negatively affect someone’s personal life and their ability to find employment.

Civil Consequences That May Apply to a Sex Crime Offense

When someone is charged with a sex crime, it is quite common for them to also be sued in civil court. In such instances, a conviction in criminal court may lead to losing a case in civil court. An acquittal in criminal court, however, may not prevent the civil action from moving forward. Civil courts use a lower standard-of-proof than criminal courts which could make it possible for a defendant to be acquitted in criminal court and still lose in civil court.

How a Shelby County Sex Crimes Lawyer Could Help

If a person has been charged with any type of sexual offense, they may need to consult a Shelby County sex crimes lawyer to discuss potential legal options that could positively influence their case. Getting the help an aggressive Shelby sex crimes attorney may help ensure all their rights are fully protected. Legal professionals could help share the burden of fighting such a difficult charge and sift through different Alabama laws, and file documents that could better fortify a person’s defense. Contact a resourceful Shelby County sex crimes attorney before proceeding to court in Alabama.